Civil Defence Child Protection Policy 2018

This policy outlines the procedures and establishes the responsibilities of Civil Defence members1 with regard to the protection of children when working with, or when brought into contact with, children whilst engaged in Civil Defence duties and exercises. Each Civil Defence Unit must have a Designated Liaison Person (DLP) to act as a liaison with outside agencies and as a resource person to any member who has child protection concerns.

The policy has been developed in line with the principles of Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (Department of Children and Youth Affairs 2017).

This policy replaces previous Civil Defence Child Protection Policies. It takes into account the decision made by the Department of Defence in 2014, to increase the minimum recruitment age for membership of Civil Defence to 18.

This policy will be reviewed by the Department of Defence every 2 years, or more regularly if required.

This policy operates in conjunction with Civil Defence’s Child Safeguarding Statement, the Civil Defence Code of Conduct and the Civil Defence Volunteer Policy. These are available on www.civildefence.ie